HE'S more used to winning rounds than serving them, but that didn't stop champion boxer George Groves from rolling up his sleeves and helping out behind the bar.
The Hammersmith born pugilist dropped into The Goose, in North End Road, last month to mark the reopening of the 250-year-old Fulham pub after a major refurbishment.
Punters must have thought manager Reg Manning was really upping the security by asking the British and Commonwealth Super Middle Weight Champion to pull pints, but the local fighter was more than happy to help.
The sports pub has undergone a £200,000 facelift to give it a more modern feel including new signage, new flooring and the restoration of the pub's fireplace.
Mr Manning who has been at the pub for 14 years, said: “The opening weekend was a real success and we’ve had so many new faces pop in to see the changes the investment has brought about. The team and I think the Goose looks fantastic, as do our regular customers and we hope to attract even more people to the pub to enjoy the new and much improved surroundings.
“We were delighted that George was at the pub, helping us to celebrate – he even got behind the bar and pulled a few pints. He said the pub looked incredible and that he hoped he could pop for a drink or two when he’s not training for his upcoming fight which is on Saturday, March 16.
“We’ll be showing the fight of course and will be supporting him throughout.”
The Saint, as he’s known in the ring, will be taking on Mouhamed Ali Ndiaye for the European crown at Wembley Arena next weekend.
Turn to page 30 to learn more about the history of The Goose in Pub Quiz.
